Musician 1st Class Myles Blakemore is a native of Dallas, TX. He received a Bachelor’s degree in Trombone Performance from Southern Methodist University and a Master’s degree in Orchestral Performance from Manhattan School of Music. His teachers include Per Brevig, John Kitzman, and James McNair.

Prior to entering the Navy, Blakemore held fellowships with the Minnesota Orchestra, New World Symphony in FL, and Symphony in C in NJ. Professionally, he has performed with the Charleston Symphony, Dallas Symphony, and Malaysian Philharmonic. In addition to his education, he has been a member of the Aspen Music Festival, Brevard Music Center, Lake George Music Festival, National Repertory Orchestra, and Spoleto Music Festival USA.

In 2018, Blakemore auditioned and was selected for assignment to the U.S. Naval Academy Band. Following recruit training at RTC Great Lakes, he reported for duty as trombonist with the brass ensemble, marching band, and ceremonial units.

In this episode, Ben and Michael discuss audition success and hear what Myles' story is as a musician, and also discuss how to integrate more minority communities into classical music.